Who Won ‘American Idol’ Season 23? Finale Recap And Results

American Idol crowned its Season 23 winner on Sunday, May 18, during a live, star-studded finale filled with stellar performances and lots of special guests. Read on for a recap of the grand finale, including who was named the American Idol 2025 winner and runner-up.

Judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood all performed during the finale, joined by the Top 14 and special guests including the Goo Goo Dolls, Good Charlotte, Jessica Simpson, Patti LaBelle, Salt-N-Pepa, Jennifer Holliday, Josh Groban, Brandon Lake, Cody Johnson, Myles Smith, and Kirk Franklin.

The night kicked off with the Top 3 contestants – John Foster, Jamal Roberts, and Breanna Nix – performing “We Are the Champions” by Queen. In the final episode, the singers were mentored by artist-in-residence, rapper and songwriter Jelly Roll.

Round 1

First up was 18-year-old Foster, who sang “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)” by Toby Keith. Richie said he “nailed” the performance, while Underwood said she was so proud of him. Fellow judge Bryan praised his growth and confidence, adding that it’s been a “privilege” to watch him on stage.

Roberts, 27, then took the stage to perform “First Time” by Teeks. Underwood pointed out how comfortable and at ease he looked on stage. “Everything about you is a star,” Bryan said, complimenting how smooth he is. Richie added that he loves how Jamal navigates the story on stage, which comes out of his mouth “in brilliant forms.”

Twenty-five-year-old Nix was up next, performing “In Jesus Name (God Is Possible)” by Katy Nichole. “You’ve just been amazingly solid all year,” praised Bryan. Richie told Nix that her belief has always shown through her music and urged her to stay on her path. Underwood noted how Jesus has been an important part of her journey from the beginning. “That’s who you are.”

Round 2

The contestants then headed back to their respective hometowns. Addis, Louisiana native Foster performed “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver. Richie quipped that he wanted to see Foster’s birth certificate and urged viewers to vote. Underwood commended his song choice, while Bryan highlighted his emotional hometown visit.

Following his hometown visit to Meridian, Mississippi, Roberts performed “Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)” by The Temptations. Underwood praised his ability to sing everything from contemporary to throwback hits. Bryan called Roberts “one of the most amazing people” he’s ever seen on this show. Richie said he was “divinely guided” and is “going to rock the world.”

Nix concluded the second round of performances before the first elimination. She returned to her roots in Denton, Texas, then hit the stage to sing “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus. The judges gave her a standing ovation. “What a perfect song choice,” Bryan said, adding that she took him on an “unbelievable ride.” Richie added, “Perfect song, perfect voice, perfect presentation.” Underwood commented that she’s “a gorgeous, wonderful inspiration for so many people.”

Which Top 3 Contestant Was Eliminated First?

Breanna Nix was the first contestant eliminated in the American Idol Season 23 finale. Longtime host Ryan Seacrest announced that her new single, “Higher,” is out now.

Before the winner was revealed, Foster performed his new single, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” while Roberts debuted his original song, “Heal.”

Who Won American Idol Season 23?

Jamal Roberts was named the winner of American Idol Season 23. After his win, he took the stage to perform “Her Heart” by Anthony Hamilton.

Coming in second place, John Foster was named the American Idol Season 23 runner-up.

Seacrest revealed that over 26 million votes were cast Sunday night – more than double the number from last year’s finale.

The American Idol Season 23 finale will be available to stream on Hulu starting May 19.